Footy cult hero Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti finds a radically different new career after shocking the AFL by retiring twice in the space of a year

Footy icon Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti has lifted the lid on his radical career change after retiring from the AFL last year.

McDonald-Tipungwuti, 30, made a surprise return to footy in 2023 after retiring in 2022, but called it time for good with a farewell outing during the Bombers’ final round match at the end of last season.

The popular star now lives in Mildura and will represent Imperials in the Sunraysia league in 2024, but has revealed what he will be doing away from the pitch.

The free-scoring forward will work with the local hospital to visit schools, where he will oversee footy clinics to help children’s wellbeing.

‘(I’ll be) teaching them about health and what it means to keep healthy, and inspiring young kids,’ McDonald-Tipungwuti told 7NEWS.

The AFL cult hero retired from the sport at the end of last season

‘It doesn’t matter if they’re Indigenous kids, we’ve got a lot of nationalities up here in Mildura. I can’t wait to get out there and share my story.

‘I’m looking forward to the new role. It’s quite different compared to football but I’m looking forward to challenging myself and seeing what I can do.’

The former Essendon star has plenty of experience in this domain, having conducted similar clinics during his playing days. 

McDonald-Tipungwuti moved to rural Victoria and admitted the transition has taken time to get used to. 

‘I was used to that structure, going to training, doing all the football stuff. Now it’s just, yeah, being a normal person in a way,’ he said.

‘It’s quite challenging at the start but for me it’s more just learning now and seeing what I can do with myself and grow personally.

‘Hopefully we can build a very good support in the community, get more AFL clubs, netball, soccer, give back to the community and kids.’

Reflecting on his upcoming footy challenge with the Imperials, he said: ‘They’ve been struggling for a few years. 

‘It’s probably good for me to challenge myself as a footballer and someone that has experience playing AFL football.

‘I’m looking forward to challenging myself, especially encouraging the next generation as juniors to come up and play football.’